Post Advertisements: University of the Western Cape Library

Two Vacancies at the University of the Western Cape Library

The University of the Western Cape Library is a major academic learning resource center with a staff component of 62, a collection of approximately 309 000 volumes, 1 208 periodical print titles with a wide range of electronic databases and 1 800 computer work stations for staff and students.The Library is engaged in numerous digital initiatives designed to provide seamless access to a full array of scholarly information. It has already embarked on establishing an “Electronic Thesis & Dissertation” project, a subcomponent of the institutional repository.

1) Deputy Director: Library Services

The Deputy Director: Library Services will deputize, represent and substitute the Library Director on internal and external strategic management forums. The incumbent will also be the project manager for Library ICT, and learning and research initiatives to ensure integration of library and information into teaching, learning and research. The envisaged candidate will therefore need to have extensive knowledge of the virtual/digital library components.
Main duties include: * developing and implementing the Library’s ICT strategy * developing and overseeing quality control issues by monitoring the Library’s performance, resource utilization and staff performance to ensure alignment to higher education current trends * overseeing personnel, recruitment, staff development & training, financial management and budget control * constantly participating in action research to determine the Library’s relevance to the academic business, research and learning enterprise.
Minimum requirements for appointment are: * an Hon ours degree in Library Science, with additional qualifications in Information Communication Technology or Computer Science with practical exposure on e- knowledge management * 8 - 10 years’ relevant experience in the strategic management of an academic e-learning or digital library environment * extensive knowledge of collection development dynamics to ensure library centrality and relevance to the university programs.
Key competencies should include: * sound interpersonal skills * the ability to manage performance standards * financial management skills * effective planning and organizing ability * knowledge of research methodology * mentoring and coaching skills * project and Human Resources management skills.

2) Head: Library Information Communication Technology/Systems Co-ordinator

A vacancy currently exists for a dynamic, self-motivated team player and strategist to facilitate library system use and ICT operations of the entire Library.
Main duties and responsibilities will involve: * managing the Library’s IT services * planning and developing the IT operational plan and strategies * implementing and co-coordinating the IT functions of Library Services * managing and co-coordinating functions and activities of the ICT staff and other Section Heads * responsibility for the Aleph shared library system and constantly communicating on behalf of the Library with CALICO consortium System Librarians to ensure full implementation of the system and migration to relevant system versions * maintaining digital content access * developing the Library’s website in conjunction with the Multi-Media Librarian, e-Resources and Training & Faculty Librarians * facilitating the implementation of new technologies as set by Library Management and the University ICT * playing a leading role in the establishment of the Library’s Knowledge/Learning Commons project.

Minimum requirements for appointment include: * a Bachelor of Library Science, or equivalent, with additional qualifications in Computer Studies or Information Communication Technology * 5 - 8 years’ work experience in an electronic learning environment or library systems administration of any library system, such as Aleph and Innopac * hands-on expertise in web management, as well as program development, customization and development of research/subject portals * in-depth knowledge of the application of current software for information access management.

Candidates must also demonstrate: * sound communicative skills * the ability to work independently * the required skills to train and develop sectional and other staff in need of Information Communication Technology skills.

Commencement of duties: As soon as possible.
To apply, please forward your CV and a letter highlighting your suitability for the post, accompanied by the names and full contact particulars (e-mail and postal addresses, telephone and cell numbers) of at least two referees, to Ms Beverley Walker-Thomas, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, or fax 021 959 1466, or via e-mail to bwalker@uwc.ac.za.
The closing date for applications is 25 April 2008.

In line with the University’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, applications from the designated groups will be given priority consideration. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. We will only correspond with short-listed candidates.
A place of quality, a place to grow from hope to action through knowledge.

Post Ref No: 13834